Anal fissure can be quite embarrassing, apart from being painful. It is caused by a small tear in the lining of the mucus, which is located in the lower rectum. People of all ages are susceptible to rectal fissures. It can be caused by passing of large, hard and dry stools, Constipation, prolonged Diarrhea, and in older adults due to reduced blood flow to the rectal area. Women, during childbirth, are also vulnerable to this condition.

The classic symptoms of anal fissures are pain during or after defecation, the passing of bright red blood from the anus and an itching sensation. The pain can be very severe and may last for a few minutes, or several hours after a bowel motion. Anal fissures can lead to chronic fissures, if it fails to heal despite straightforward measures and treatments. Studies have shown that less than 10% of chronic fissures are eventually resolved with conservative methods, most might however need further intervention for the condition to heal.

Doctors, along with medical treatments, advise home remedies for anal fissure like:
-- Drinking a lot of fluids
-- Consuming a high fiber diet
-- Application of petroleum jelly to the anus
-- Taking regular Sitz (salt water) baths, this involves sitting in a shallow bath of warm water for about 20 minutes.
-- Bathing or showering after every bowel motion
-- Making use of baby wipes instead of toilet paper